What do i do next

[davethebirdman]

I managed to a copule of pohots of my new toy tonight. The first time I've really had a chance to have a look at it.

I've compared it to my restored V39 and it looks complete.

Does anyone know of a site or publication that runs through the restoration of soda machines. I have a copy of the manual that does the rounds on Ebay but that wasn't exactly what I was after. I was looking ofr something that gives a step by step guide.

The machine has specs of rust showing through but that's about it. No big chunks of messy metal. It had the empty bottle rack on the side hence the holes.  

The re-fridgeration unit is not the same as my other machine. It works but looks in need of some sort of over-haul. Not sure if it is possible to find someone this side of the water who knows what they are doing.

[davethebirdman]

Some more photos.

[davethebirdman]

And a couple more.

[Eric]

Nice 39... looks like the liner is in great shape... Now aren't you glad you got it!
Way to Go!

Eric

[glassbottlesrule]

Looks pretty good to me Dave.

[Creighton]

Wow Dave, that looks great! A good clean and polish and a rewire of the compressor and you should off to a great start. The paint experts will know more but may just be able to touch up what is there. Good score.
Creighton

[MoonDawg]

Dave, nice machine...much better than I expected. Agree with Creighton. Over here when we find such a nice original like that, we clean it up and sell it unrestored.
       This is an early model 39, that's why the compressor is different than your restored machine. It was originally all red with white letters but Coke repainted red and white.
       The only work this machine needs can all be done by Dave Bird.  Take parts off, buff the paint and replace. Use a chemical on that rust. I have a bottle rack for the side if U need one.
Start with removing the compressor. Thermostat has been changed and is not in the right place, but it's ok there. The liner floor looks to have been poorly painted, I'm sure you can strip it and do better.
       Cool tranformer!

[dr galaga]

Looks nice Dave.  And you have an embossed mason jar in the bottom (I know. too bad it's not a Coke bottle).

[globalcompressors]

Looks like a great, solid machine!
The refrigeration doesn't look that bad either. A bit of spit and polish...
Just roll up your sleeves!

Eric

[BryanH]

Quote (davethebirdman @ Nov. 07 2005,11:47)

Does anyone know of a site or publication that runs through the restoration of soda machines. I have a copy of the manual that does the rounds on Ebay but that wasn't exactly what I was after. I was looking ofr something that gives a step by step guide.

Dave - my suggestion is to (i) take pictures of every major piece you can see (ii) get your toolbox, (iii) start tearing it apart, (iv) clean, paint or restore any individual pieces from the step before (v) post questions with pics when you get stuck and (vi) go back to step (i).  Repeat until it's all apart and restored... Then reverse the process.  The key, I think, is that somewhere on these boards there always seems to be someone that has bumped into your problem, so as long as you have the time you'll be able to get through your first restoration.

There's also a couple good threads like Restoration for dummies, A plea from a humble journeyman that outline different tactics.